EMI reel-to-reel tape recorder
Object No. 2002/123/1
The Electric and Musical Industries (EMI) BTR1 (British Tape Recorder version 1) was the first magnetic tape recording machine designed and manufactured in Britain. It was modelled on the German Magnetophone, examples of which were captured by US troops from the German army toward the end of World War 2. These Magnetophones were taken to the USA, where their design was studied and copied by the Ampex Corporation. The technology was shared with allies including the UK. The development of tape recording technology advanced rapidly after the war and tape soon overtook the preferred recording medium of the time, acetates (flat round records). Tape recording also brought about advances in the methods of audio design and construction, notably the ability to splice portions of recordings together, perform long and continuous recordings of performances, and increase the fidelity (wider frequency response) of recorded material. This EMI BTR/1 was probably imported into Australia sometime between 1948 and 1952. Campbell Bickerstaff, Curator 2002
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Summary
Object Statement
Reel-to-reel tape recorder, BTR1, metal / plastic / glass / electronic components, designed and manufactured by EMI (Electric and Musical Industries), England, 1948
Physical Description
Reel-to-reel tape recorder, BTR1, metal / plastic / glass / electronic components, designed and manufactured by EMI (Electric and Musical Industries), England, 1948 Professional type tape recorder for use in broadcasting, recording and research. The equipment is housed in a studio console cabinet. The tape deck is on top with the control panel facing the front above access doors.
PRODUCTION
Notes
The EMI BTR1 design is based upon the German Magnetophone. The Magnetophone hardware was designed by AEG and the tape by the chemical company IG Farben. It was in use by German radio and military forces by 1936. Magnetic recording existed prior to the tape machine in the form of metal wire recorders, whihc were originally designed and built around 1900 by Danish inventor Valdemar Poulson, who was then working for the Copenhagen Telephone Company. Manufactured by EMI in the UK.
HISTORY
Notes
Around 1995 this EMI BTR/1 was delivered to the EMI music premises in Sydney where it was declined. Steve Crane accepted it from an unknown source and kept it until he offered it to Anthony Russo of the Technical Audio Group. It remained at the donor's premises until it was given to the Museum.
SOURCE
Credit Line
Gift of Technical Audio Group, 2002
Acquisition Date
25 September 2002
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